Transformer or inverter flux core

[MoArk Willy]

I bought a cheap Amico Chinese 160 inverter stick welder off of Amazon. It’s not a bad little unit and I like it.
If you don’t go with that and really just want Flux Core then I would go with the Titanium Flux Core..

And I agree that you are a good person to answer this question.

I actually started with the Amico 160 a few years ago. I like it very much, easy to weld with DC.
Now I just ordered the Titanium, with the coupon and got it for about $169
I think that between both of those I can do most everything I need.

I want to thank you and all of those for their feedback.

 

[STERLING351]

I've used my Titanium MIG 170 on both 110 and 220V using flux core and have been impressed with it, I even did some welding with my Champion 3500/4000W generator with it on 110V... I haven't put anything but the small wire (.030? don't remember, my 90A Chicago Electric transformer welder won't work with the smaller wire).

I've been trying to use that welder on anything iffy and it's proven itself, gone through almost a full spool of wire (small size) without a hickup, taken it camping a couple times and it was used twice that trip once on an Onan generator on a 5th wheel and another with the bigger Harbor Freight inverter generator both on 110V doing very structural welding on off road vehicles. I've been using that welder mainly because I got in on a sidewalk deal for a fraction of retail...

Ive been looking into one of these to replace my old heavy hobart which does no produce the nicest welds. To the OP dont let people talk you out of Flux core welding, sure it isnt as pretty but **** will it hold nicely. If im not working on cars then i only use flux core, and its great to use outside when you do not need to do a project with an arch welder. As another person mentioned these machines are much lighter. I do not have any first hand expierence with eastwood welders, but the new line from harbor freight has some nice reviews.

 

[MoArk Willy]

I received my Titanium 125 today. Set up a bit of 3/16" need for brackets and played with it a bit.
I am amazed. I thought my DC inverter arc was smooth but this is incredible.
I cannot believe how small and efficient these welders are.

 

[DerekF]

I received my Titanium 125 today. Set up a bit of 3/16" need for brackets and played with it a bit.
I am amazed. I thought my DC inverter arc was smooth but this is incredible.
I cannot believe how small and efficient these welders are.

I don’t need another flux core welder at all and I still want to buy the titanium just to try it. I’d like to hear some feed back after you have used it longer. Congrats on the new welder!

 

[MoArk Willy]

. I’d like to hear some feed back after you have used it longer. Congrats on the new welder!

Will do.
I do have a question regarding the "nozzle gel" for MIG Welders.
Is this something that is needed or recommended for flux core as well?
I'm new to wire feed welding and I haven't heard one way or another regarding it's usage.

 

[DerekF]

Will do.
I do have a question regarding the "nozzle gel" for MIG Welders.
Is this something that is needed or recommended for flux core as well?
I'm new to wire feed welding and I haven't heard one way or another regarding it's usage.

Sorry for the slow reply. I haven’t ever actually used it. I think it’s not necessary. It’s supposed to keep all the consumables spatter free but I don’t think it would have made anything last longer or less work for me. Someone else might have more to say about it though. I just haven’t ever used the stuff and haven’t felt I had any issues.

 

[Mark @ Everlast]

Well Mark I have considered that but I just can't see myself needing a MIG often enough to justify the additional cost.
Unless of course you are suggesting I buy an "EASTWOOD" welder.
And I am 100% sure you aren't.
I have done my research and your machines are, IMHO, with the Millers, Hobarts and Lincolns as far as quality.
But I am on a budget, have minimal usage requirements and again can't justify the additional $$$.

Smaller flux-core only welders are typically made with cheaper components, worse duty cycle. If all things were equal, the units would be almost the same price as the price for a solenoid and the related circuit is almost negligible. If there is a large difference, it is because of lower quality drive components and cheaper quality all the way around.

 

[Mark @ Everlast]

MoArk,
MIG/Flux welders typically have a special nozzle or something that can be used for flux core that does not need cleaning but may need replacing over time as spatter burns or scars it beyond practical use, or if you use the standard gun nozzle, you should use a spray or gel made for MIG welding occasionally.

 

[prof fate]

i have the cheapie harbor freight flux core 110v wire feed welder, $100 or sometimes a bit less.

I needed something to weld sheet metal on a car and use in the barn which only has 110v.

It works great - from sheet metal (always tricky but practice helps) to 1/8 or a bit thicker steel. Doesn't make the prettiest welds..or maybe that's me. I do better on thicker stuff with my ac 'buzz box' stick welder and with the mig at work, but then it's $850....

 

[KubotainNH]

I had the 90amp HF wire feed and it did the job for awhile but barely. My and my son's projects have jumped up lots so I ordered an Everlast iMig140 from Mark awhile back. Started with flux core but not having to clean flux is so nice when using gas that I prefer not to go back. We've run between 40 and 50 pounds of wire through that little unit and it goes without skipping a beat. The duty cycle is a huge plus, the HF one would sputter after a few mins of continuous welding. Having a separate lightweight inverter flux only box may be nice to add to the stable though, for those quick out of the way jobs.